Iyabo Obasanjo Endorses Consensus Strategy for APC Candidates Ahead of 2027

|By Chinwendu Nwani

Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, has thrown her weight behind the use of consensus in selecting candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on Sunrise Daily on Channels Television, the Ogun State governorship hopeful said the consensus approach remains the best pathway to producing credible and electable candidates within the party.

She dismissed concerns that consensus could lead to the imposition of unpopular candidates, insisting that the process does not ignore the will of the people.

“I strongly believe consensus can produce the right candidates because it doesn’t mean party leaders ignore the people’s will; it means they carefully consider public opinion,” she said.

According to her, political parties are driven by the desire to win elections, making it unlikely for leaders to select candidates who lack public support.

“No party wants to lose, so they won’t pick candidates that could jeopardize their chances,” she added.

Obasanjo further explained that the consensus system naturally favours aspirants with strong grassroots appeal and proven electoral value.

“In the end, consensus will align with those who can actually win on the ground, because victory is the party’s main objective,” she stated.

She also noted that the approach helps to reduce internal conflict within the party by preventing the emergence of weak or divisive candidates.

“They won’t settle for the least popular option in a way that creates conflict among aspirants or discourages strong contenders. That’s why I’m convinced consensus is the best approach,” she said.

The former senator expressed confidence that the arrangement would work in her favour as she eyes the APC governorship ticket in Ogun State, citing her popularity and track record in public service, including her experience as a commissioner and lawmaker.